Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Compared to Stress Management for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Internet-delivered Cognitive Behavior Therapy Compared to Stress Management in the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome - A Randomized Controlled Study.

The study aims to compare two manualized treatments. They are based on cognitive behavior therapy or stress management. Both treatments are delivered via an internet application and the patients' work with the treatments is supported through online contact with a therapist. The treatments last for 10 weeks.

Approximately 200 patients will be included in the study and randomized to either condition.

The study hypothesis is that CBT will be superior to stress management on the main outcome measure, which is IBS symptom severity measured over 4 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of IBS given by physician
• At screening fulfilling Rome III-criteria for IBS

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe depression
• Suicidal ideation
• Presence of unexplained IBS alarm symptoms